We use your registration to provide content in a way in which you have consented and in our understanding of you. This would possibly come with advertisements from us and third parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More information
Novak Djokovic’s hopes of completing a full season remain doubtful despite his return to Australia. The Serbian will compete at the Australian Open in January, 12 months after his notorious expulsion from the country due to his Covid vaccination status.
But Djokovic’s refusal to be stung may still save her from completing a full campaign, even though many countries are easing restrictions on unvaccinated visitors. For now, the 35-year-old would be excluded from the U. S. U. S. Open.
The Serb was unable to play at Flushing Meadows last September, reportedly implementing a medical exemption.
U. S. government rules All U. S. -bound passengers will be required to provide evidence that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Only limited exceptions to this requirement apply.
This policy is unlikely to be replaced anytime soon due to developments in China. It means Djokovic would have to apply for a medical exemption to play in Indian Wells and the US Open. But its failure to obtain a waiver last year sets a transparent precedent.
ONLY IN: Djokovic rehires coach after firing physio ahead of Australian Open
Italy, India, Taiwan, South Korea, Malaysia and Japan announced new measures.
Djokovic endured a complicated 2022 due to his reluctance to get the vaccine. He fell to seventh place in the global ratings and is now fifth Carlos Alcaraz, Rafael Nadal, Casper Ruud and Stefanos Tsitsipas.
The seven-time Wimbledon champion was notoriously expelled from Australia last January after a lengthy legal back-and-forth with the country’s government. Djokovic originally granted a medical exemption from Tennis Australia, but revoked it through the sports minister.
Australian Open CEO Craig Tiley has revealed that he has had talks with Djokovic about the negative reception he could receive when he returns to the court.
DON’T MISS IT. Rafael Nadal drops a trail of retirement in Australian Open defense
“We talked about (an imaginable bad reaction from the crowd) and he, like any athlete, would worry about it. But it’s one of the things he does in the most productive way as a player,” Tiley told reporters.
“There is a lot of respect for him as a player, as an athlete and for what he has completed in the game and continues to achieve. And I think the Australian public and the network appreciate it. “
He added: “With Novak, I have wonderful confidence in the Australian community, the community, they appreciate when they look at a nine-time champion, a wonderful player,” Tiley said.
“It’s coming off 2022 with the most productive season finale of any male player and it’s going to be tough to beat. I have that confidence and you know, whatever happens, it will happen, but I think it goes away. It’s very much appreciated that he comes back and plays the kind of tennis he plays.